2012 Ford Explorer Delivers Best In Class MPG

Today, Ford officially came out with fuel economy numbers for the 2012 Ford Explorer equipped with the revolutionary EcoBoost engine. According to Ford, the seven-passenger SUV makes 240 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque while gaining EPA fuel economy figures of 20 miles per gallon in the city and 28 on the highway. In case you were wondering, that’s best in class, better than the Honda Pilot, the Toyota Highlander, the Dodge Durango, the Chevy Traverse, and even the Subaru Impreza (which actually isn’t in its class, but the stat is too imprezive not to list!)

As one of the most popular sports utility vehicles on the road today, many fans have eagerly anticipated an overview of the 2012 Ford Explorer. This newest model will sport all of the many popular features from the previous edition of the Explorer, which won the North American Truck of the Year honors. However, the 2012 also makes a few important aesthetic and functional changes as well. Read on for a brief overview of the 2012 Ford Explorer and what sets it apart from previous models.

Changes to Engine and Fuel Efficiency

The biggest changes to the 2012 Ford Explorer from previous models is that there are now optional Ford EcoBoost four-cylinder engines available for all Explorers. These turbocharged four-cylinder 2.0 liter V6 engines provide excellent power and towing capability, while also providing outstanding fuel efficiency. They are also far more environmentally friendly than previous engines were. There are many technical reasons why the performance goes up as well as the mileage, but mainly its because the EcoBoost combines turbocharging with direct fuel injection in a smaller engine.

Quality of Ride

One of the longest term focuses of the Ford Explorer has been the high quality of the ride that is available to those who drive it. Through clever design feats, the engineers behind the 2012 model have ensured that the vehicle maintains excellent handling under any terrain, even at speed. The ride is very quiet and exceptionally smooth. The interior of the vehicle is outfitted with the latest sound, climate and GPS technologies, as well as optional leather or heated leather seats.

Environmental Considerations

The Explorer is known also for being one of the greenest and most environmentally friendly of the different sports utility vehicles available today. One way that the 2012 model sets itself apart is by providing an increase in gears in the transmission system. By upping the number of gears to six, the company provides a greater degree of handling control at all speeds for the vehicle. This also allows consumers to better control the use of fuel while driving their vehicles.

Safety

Other features of the 2012 focus on safety. This ensures that, even when the vehicle is full with people or cargo, it will always be as safe as possible. The braking system is enhanced to be optimized for high speeds, turns and other dangerous situations. Airbags are installed for all seats. A seat belt fastening reminder is in place on all vehicles for both the driver and the passenger’s seat. For those customers with children, there is a special system to latch in child’s safety seats so that they are secure while driving. There are also optional collision warning and cross-traffic alerts that can be installed on all models of the 2012 version of the Ford Explorer as well.

While it’s obviously a huge accomplishment, is anyone really surprised the 2012 Explorer delivers best in class mpg? Voice your opinion about that, or any other aspect of this fine machine, here!